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Corey Kispert Gets Real On Deni Avdija's Return To Washington

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Renzo Pocholo Salao | Last updated Feb 26, 2025 11:44 PM ET

Corey Kispert was ecstatic to see a familiar face take the hardwood floor at Capital One Arena.

Deni Avdija returned to D.C. on Wednesday night for the first time since the Washington Wizards traded him to the Portland Trail Blazers in the offseason.

Avdija's stint on the court was cut short after he sustained a quad injury. But that did not prevent Kispert from commemorating the Israeli's lengthy tenure in Washington.

Kispert lit up during his postgame press conference when he was asked about catching up with Avdija before Wednesday's game, which the Wizards lost 129-121.

"Oh, it's the best," Kispert said. "I miss him. Love that guy. There's so much that he brought to our locker room that made him an amazing teammate, an amazing friend. And I know he's doing really well in Portland. He's having a hell of a year.

"It was unfortunate for him to go out so quickly tonight in his return here. But it's been a blast watching him play. It's been a blast watching him grow and see how he grew here and how he's doing in Portland as well. Super happy for him and awesome having him back."

The Wizards drafted Avdija 9th overall in 2020. Deni showed steady improvement in each of the four years under his rookie contract. He had linear growth in almost every statistical category each year, culminating in his breakout 2023-24 campaign.

In his final season in D.C., Avdija averaged 14.7 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 3.8 assists on 50.6% shooting from the floor. Aside from a minor dip in shooting efficiency, Deni has largely carried over his production since moving to Portland.

Avdija played just six minutes on Wednesday before being ruled out due to injury. He finished with five points, two rebounds, an assist, and two turnovers.

Kispert shined for the Wizards with a 20-point outing off the bench.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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